Citrus Herb Sheet Pan Salmon
Highlighted under: Easy Dinner Recipes
A vibrant and flavorful dish that combines the freshness of citrus with aromatic herbs, all cooked to perfection on a sheet pan for easy cleanup.
This Citrus Herb Sheet Pan Salmon is not only delicious but also a breeze to prepare. The combination of citrus and herbs elevates the dish, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Bright citrus flavors bring a refreshing twist to classic salmon.
- One-pan meal means less cleanup, making dinner time stress-free.
- Packed with nutrients, this dish is both healthy and satisfying.
The Freshness of Citrus
Citrus fruits are not only vibrant and visually appealing but also packed with flavor and nutrition. In this recipe, the combination of lemon and orange elevates the salmon, enhancing its natural richness. The acidity from the citrus helps to brighten the dish, creating a refreshing balance that complements the tender salmon. This infusion of citrus not only makes the dish more appealing but also adds essential vitamins and antioxidants, making it a perfect choice for a healthy meal.
Using both lemon and orange zest in the marinade offers a depth of flavor that is both zesty and aromatic. The zest captures the essential oils from the skin, delivering a punch of citrus that enhances every bite. This approach ensures that each fillet is not just seasoned but infused with a delightful tang, making your dinner experience truly extraordinary.
Effortless One-Pan Cooking
One of the standout features of the Citrus Herb Sheet Pan Salmon is its simplicity. With everything cooked on a single sheet pan, you can enjoy a flavorful meal without the hassle of multiple pots and pans. This method not only saves time but also reduces cleanup, allowing you to enjoy more time with family or relax after a busy day.
The versatility of this dish also shines through in its preparation. You can easily customize the vegetables based on what's in season or your personal preferences. From zucchini to bell peppers, the options are endless, making it a flexible recipe that adapts to your taste while keeping the preparation simple and straightforward.
Nutritional Benefits
Salmon is renowned for its health benefits, being an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for heart health and brain function. This dish not only provides a delicious meal but also supports your overall well-being. Paired with a colorful array of vegetables, you are getting a balanced meal rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
Asparagus, cherry tomatoes, and red onion each bring their own set of nutrients to the table. Asparagus is a great source of vitamins A, C, and K, while cherry tomatoes provide antioxidants like lycopene. Together, these ingredients create a nourishing dish that is not only satisfying but also promotes a healthy lifestyle.
Ingredients
For the Salmon
- 4 salmon fillets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 1 orange, zested and juiced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Vegetables
- 2 cups asparagus, trimmed
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 red onion, sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Enjoy your meal!
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Prepare the Marinade
In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon zest, orange zest, lemon juice, orange juice, minced garlic, dill, parsley, salt, and pepper.
Marinate the Salmon
Place the salmon fillets in a shallow dish and pour half of the marinade over them. Let it marinate for 10 minutes.
Prepare the Vegetables
On a sheet pan, toss asparagus, cherry tomatoes, and red onion with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Bake the Salmon and Vegetables
Make space in the center of the sheet pan for the salmon and place the fillets skin-side down. Drizzle the remaining marinade over the salmon. Bake for 20 minutes or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
Serve immediately with your favorite sides!
Cooking Tips for Perfect Salmon
To achieve perfectly cooked salmon, ensure that your fillets are of even thickness. This ensures that they cook evenly, preventing any parts from becoming overdone while others remain undercooked. If necessary, you can gently pound thicker areas to create a more uniform thickness.
Another tip is to let your salmon rest for a few minutes after baking. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the fish, resulting in a moist and flavorful fillet. Serve it with a wedge of lemon for an extra burst of freshness.
Serving Suggestions
This Citrus Herb Sheet Pan Salmon pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it over a bed of quinoa or brown rice to absorb the delicious marinade. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette can also complement the dish, adding a refreshing crunch.
For a heartier meal, you might serve it alongside roasted potatoes or a warm grain salad. The vibrant flavors of the salmon and vegetables will harmonize beautifully with these sides, creating a well-rounded and satisfying dinner.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The salmon can be kept for up to three days, maintaining its flavor and texture. When reheating, do so gently in the microwave or oven to prevent the fish from drying out.
For a quick lunch option, consider flaking the leftover salmon over a salad or mixing it into a wrap with fresh veggies. This versatile dish can easily transition into another meal, making the most of your cooking efforts.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Yes, just ensure the salmon is fully thawed before marinating.
→ What vegetables can I substitute?
You can use any seasonal vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or broccoli.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
→ Can I grill the salmon instead of baking it?
Absolutely! Grilling will add a nice smoky flavor to the salmon.
Citrus Herb Sheet Pan Salmon
A vibrant and flavorful dish that combines the freshness of citrus with aromatic herbs, all cooked to perfection on a sheet pan for easy cleanup.
Created by: Anna
Recipe Type: Easy Dinner Recipes
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Salmon
- 4 salmon fillets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 1 orange, zested and juiced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Vegetables
- 2 cups asparagus, trimmed
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 red onion, sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon zest, orange zest, lemon juice, orange juice, minced garlic, dill, parsley, salt, and pepper.
Place the salmon fillets in a shallow dish and pour half of the marinade over them. Let it marinate for 10 minutes.
On a sheet pan, toss asparagus, cherry tomatoes, and red onion with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Make space in the center of the sheet pan for the salmon and place the fillets skin-side down. Drizzle the remaining marinade over the salmon. Bake for 20 minutes or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
- Sodium: 85mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 10g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 30g